Nelson to Lady Hamilton, Victory, off Toulon, 18 Oct 1803, (Harrison I, 155, with words 'Prince of Wales' excised; extract in Nicolas, V, 253), 3 pages.

Nelson confirms that Emma’s letters from 17 July to 24 August all arrived safe in the CHILDERS. One day has been precisely like the other, except for the difference of a gale or not, also a false alarm the other day when it was reported that the French had come out of Toulon and the British ships went as far as Minorca in pursuit. Nelson sends a copy of a letter from Gibbs regarding assistance with the debt of the Bronte estate. He discusses a list of twenty-six officers waiting to be made captains, to which he will add Palmer, who is recommended in letters he has received from Lord William and Kemble. He will endeavour to do what is right in every situation, but he will probably offend many more than he can oblige. Nelson discusses the poor finances in Naples and the likely prospect of the kingdom becoming a province of France if Acton was to give up his place. However, Elliott says that in response to a letter from Napoleon asking for Acton to be turned out, the Queen of Naples has given him more power than ever. Nelson discusses the diplomatic negotiations of Sir Alexander Ball and wonders what he will do with poor Este who will be joining him on the VICTORY. On 22 October Nelson has no further news, but he sends his most affectionate regards and asks to be remembered to Charlotte and Mrs Cadogan, also Charles, who has not been well.